Recruitment process

The interview

We think it's important to be open about how we select and interview candidates.

When you’re invited to an interview, we’ll be clear about what will happen and whether you need to do any preparatory work. If you’re unsure, just ask.

If you need us to make any adjustments, let us know when you’re invited for an interview.

Types of interview

The interview type depends on the role, and could be conducted over the phone or face-to-face. Most interviews involve competency-based questions, and there may be ability tests, role-play or group assessments too. For face-to-face interviews, please bring your passport and address details (a bill or similar).

Preparing for your interview

First, find out more about Standard Life

Our websites are a good place to start, particularly the one you're on right now. Find out about our products and services, and the facts and figures about our businesses. Then look a bit further – find out about our culture, markets and competitors, recent press announcements, goals and business challenges.

Then find out more about the job

Have a good idea of what you’re applying for. If you didn’t get a job description, phone the recruitment team or your agency for additional information. Speak to someone who does a similar job, or research it online as part of your preparation.

Interviews are mostly competency based. You'll be asked to describe a situation where you demonstrated a particular competency or behaviour. The questions will usually begin with "Tell me about a time..." or "Describe a situation where you...".

Here are a few tips for answering competency-based questions:

Take a moment before answering to think of the best positive answer you can give

Prepare and rehearse answers in advance – a lot of competency-based questions are similar so searching online will give you some examples to help develop your technique

Use the most recent examples you can think of

If you can't think of a work-related example, draw from your personal life, eg volunteer activities, or other activities like sport.

We treat everyone equally. We don't discriminate against people on the grounds of gender, colour, race, nationality, marital status, religion or belief, sexual orientation, disability or age. If you need assistance during any stage of the recruitment process, let us know so we can make appropriate arrangements.